Trip Moments Recommendations
🇬🇧Budget-Friendly Hotel in London, UK
#magicalxmastrip
💞Reasons to Recommend: Dolphin Inn Hotel's staff are very kind and accommodating. They let us check in to our room early. We booked 3 bunk beds with a private bathroom. The room is bigger than expected, and the bed is comfortable. The breakfast buffet is also worth the price. Plus, this hotel is walking distance to plenty of souvenir shops, restaurants, hop on and off buses, and the Paddington train station. Just a heads up, they do not have an elevator.
#familytravel #couplestrip #staycation #uk #london
Christmas vibes
I recently traveled to London in early December. It was the festive season, and everywhere I went, shops and tourist spots were beautifully decorated. This made for some lovely photos during the Christmas season. Plus, people seemed even friendlier than usual, always greeting each other with 'Merry Christmas.' I really love the atmosphere and this festive period.
London | Brilliant Greek restaurant with Christmas vibe
Yesterday, I went to enjoy Greek food with a friend I hadn't seen in ages! This restaurant had been on my list for a while, and it didn’t disappoint—the ambiance was fantastic with Christmas vibe.
Who would have thought the place would be fully booked on a Monday evening? It was packed with foreigners having Christmas gatherings.
All Day Long
This lychee-flavored cocktail seemed light on alcohol at first, with a refreshing taste, but the kick came later—what a surprise!
Mykonian Salad
A super healthy choice! The cherry tomatoes were perfectly sweet and tangy, paired with crispy bread—absolutely delicious!
Octopus
Incredibly chewy and tender with a bouncy texture. The mashed potato base added a nice touch to the flavor and texture.
Lamb Kebab
The "lamb skewer" was super hearty! The seasoning was spot on, eliminating any gamy taste, and the sauce on the bottom made it even better.
Mushroom Pasta
Infused with truffle, this dish was incredibly aromatic. At first, I thought it was rice, but it turned out to be a pasta with a unique chewy texture, almost like mini noodles! A delightful surprise with rich mushroom flavors.
Grilled King Prawns
This is a must-try! The prawns were super fresh, tender, and juicy. The slight char on the surface added a smoky aroma. Perfect for sharing between two people!
Greek Yogurt Dessert
A signature Greek treat that wasn’t heavy at all. It had a light, airy texture, topped with pistachio bits and fruit jam. Surprisingly generous in size!
Per person: £70-80
Meraki Greek Restaurant & Bar Fitzrovia
📍80-82 Great Titchfield St., London W1W 7QT
#magicalxmastrip #london #christmas2024
London | Enjoy the pre-Christmas dinner with friends
Pachamama East is an excellent restaurant located near Old Street, just a short walk from Liverpool Street. The vibe of the restaurant is fantastic, especially in the evening, creating a cozy and atmospheric dining experience.
The seafood ceviche is incredibly fresh and refreshing. The octopus is generously portioned and pairs wonderfully with the creamy potatoes, achieving a perfect balance of flavors. The Duck on the Rice dish is especially suited to Asian tastes, with flavorful duck and deliciously prepared rice.
For dessert, the cheesecake is expertly made and pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee, rounding off a flawless dining experience.
#magicalxmastrip #london
London ｜ Enjoy the Christmas vibe at Battersea Power Station
Last week, I visited the area around Battersea Power Station and was blown away by the Christmas atmosphere.
At the entrance, there’s an ice rink, and after the lights come on in the evening, adults can bring their kids to play there. There’s also a massive Christmas tree, creating a festive vibe.
Boots has set up a small booth outside, and many people were queuing up, probably for gifts.
There’s a carousel and small wooden huts serving coffee and hot drinks—perfect for warming up on a cold day!
Inside the shopping mall, the Christmas spirit is even more vibrant. If you’re lucky, you might catch the Christmas market, where many artisan stalls have some amazing displays.
What I particularly love about this mall is how they’ve preserved parts of the original operational spaces, blending modernity with historical traces.
If you have time, it’s definitely worth a visit!
📍Battersea Power Station
#magicalxmastrip #london
London | Tasty Chinese restaurant on brick Lane
One Rice
📍46 Brick Ln, London E1 6RF
London’s food scene keeps getting better, and even Brick Lane is stepping up its game!
This spot specializes in Chaoshan seafood clay pot porridge, cooked to perfection. You can choose between crab or shrimp flavors. Each spoonful of warm porridge, combined with white pepper and ginger strips, feels both healthy and delicious. The crab meat is incredibly fresh, and I especially enjoyed the crab legs—so meaty!
The pork trotter and braised meat combo rice, chosen by my friend, was super tempting. The pork trotters were tender and sticky, and the sauce on the rice was uniquely flavorful—perfect for mixing!
Braised tofu knots looked mild but packed a punch of heat. The chili aroma seeped right into the tofu, making it incredibly appetizing!
We also tried a new dish—salted egg yolk-coated yam. The texture was so unique: sandy on the outside with firm yam inside, almost like yam chips. Absolutely delicious!
💰Average spend: £20-30 (Grabbing a pork trotter rice to-go after work is also a great idea!)
#eatlikealocal #london
Regent’s Park in Fall: Nature’s Masterpiece Unveiled
Autumn in Regent’s Park is a breathtaking transformation as the gardens and pathways are painted in hues of gold, crimson, and amber. The park's iconic tree-lined avenues become a canopy of vibrant leaves, crunching underfoot with each step. Strolling around Queen Mary’s Rose Garden, you’ll find lingering blooms set against the rich colors of the season. The serene lakes reflect the warm tones, offering peaceful spots to sit and soak in the beauty. Squirrels dart about gathering for winter, adding a playful charm to the scene. Autumn in Regent’s Park is a perfect escape into nature’s artistry in the heart of London.
#uk #london
Sipping in Style: The V&A Museum Café Experience
The V&A Museum Café offers a delightful blend of history, art, and culinary indulgence. Nestled within the museum’s grand interiors, the café is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Its historic dining rooms, adorned with intricate tilework, stained glass, and ornate ceilings, provide an enchanting backdrop for a relaxing break.
The menu features a selection of artisanal sandwiches, pastries, and seasonal dishes, paired perfectly with freshly brewed coffee or tea. Whether enjoying a light lunch or a decadent cake, the ambiance and artistry of the café enhance the experience, making it a memorable part of your museum visit.
#uk #london
London | Brilliant cafe in Covent Garden with good vibe
Lilly's Café
📍3 Henrietta St, London WC2E 8LU
While exploring Covent Garden with a friend today, we stumbled upon an intriguing new coffeehouse collection—a single building housing several unique cafés.
One standout spot was Lilly's Café, which caught our attention with its trendy orange-themed decor. The space has a very Instagrammable vibe, attracting plenty of visitors snapping photos.
Drinks: They serve colorful coffee options, including pink and blue hues, which are visually striking. My friend mentioned that the coffee tends to be on the sweeter side. I had a Flat White—it wasn’t particularly remarkable in presentation, but the taste was decent and enjoyable.
Ambience: The café feels like a great spot for remote work. The atmosphere is cozy, and the Wi-Fi speed is reliable, making it a functional yet stylish choice for spending a few hours.
#eatlikealocal #london
London | Must try afternoon tea in Hotel Cafe Royal
Hotel Café Royal
📍10 Air St, London W1B 4DY
Hotel Café Royal is a stunning 5-star hotel, famous for its afternoon tea, once frequented by Oscar Wilde.
The interior is luxurious and opulent, and the historical charm of the space added to the magic—our table even had a plaque noting it was once visited by a novelist, giving us a sense of stepping back in time to meet iconic figures!
Tea Selection: There’s a wide variety of teas available, and you can switch freely. I personally enjoyed the Earl Grey—its rich, fragrant aroma paired perfectly with the sandwiches and scones.
Sandwiches: A selection of flavors, including cucumber, smoked salmon, chicken, and beef, all beautifully prepared. The crispy biscuit with tomato on top added a touch of Spanish flair—unexpected yet delicious.
Scones & Desserts: The scones were impeccably crafted, but the highlight was the Van Gogh-inspired chocolates and pastries. A tiny chocolate self-portrait was presented on a miniature easel—adorable and inventive! The coffee notes balanced the sweetness of the chocolate perfectly.
#eatlikealocal #london
London | Brilliant Australian brunch in London near dock
White Mulberries
📍D3 & E Ivory House, St. Katharine Docks, London E1W 1AT
Located at the beautiful St. Katharine Docks near Tower Bridge, this brunch spot offers a cosy and picturesque ambiance. Even on a rainy day, the view of the docks makes for a serene and charming morning.
Avocado Toast: I had the classic avocado toast, which was fantastic! The generous portion of creamy avocado paired with the crispy toast made for a perfect light breakfast—not too heavy and super satisfying.
Flat White: Their coffee is excellent, with a rich and robust flavor—just the way it should be!
Truffle Avocado Toast: My friend ordered the avocado toast with bacon and truffle. The truffle was aromatic, and the twist on the classic recipe was both creative and delicious.
Bowl: We also shared a breakfast bowl that was visually stunning and full of flavor. Blueberries, one of the best fruits no matter how you use them, were perfectly complemented by the delicate edible flowers, making it a standout in both taste and presentation.
#eatlikealocal #london
London | Enjoy the afternoon like British in Belmond Hotel
Afternoon Tea at Cadogan's by Adam Handling
📍75 Sloane Street, London, SW1X 9SE
I’ve always wanted to visit the Belmond London hotel, and last time I finally had the chance to enjoy their afternoon tea!
Since I booked for a Birthday Occasion, they surprised me with a card and a birthday cake—such a thoughtful touch. Both the quality and service were impeccable.
Set Menu: There's only one set option for the afternoon tea, but you can choose any tea you'd like, paired with a glass of sparkling wine. The wine was delightful—light and not overpowering! Each teapot is adorned with a cozy handmade by Chef Adam’s mother, complete with a little label—such a sweet detail.
Savory Items: The sandwiches were good but not quite as impressive as those at The Langham. However, one vegetarian option was surprisingly standout! The rest, including the sandwiches and cheeses, were decent but not particularly memorable. On the other hand, the mini burger and fried potato balls were excellent—long live carbs!
Sweets: I adored all the desserts! Some had strong berry flavors, others were rich with chocolate—each one was unique and delightful. Truly showstoppers!
Scones: When the scones arrived, I switched my tea to Darjeeling, as the food was becoming a bit heavy by this point. The scones were well-made, with the accompanying jams adding a great touch.
Birthday Cake: The cake they prepared for me was a white chocolate and vanilla fusion—an absolute calorie bomb, but incredibly delicious.
💷 Overall: A luxurious and indulgent experience, perfect for special occasions. Highly recommended!
#internationaltravel #london #hightea
London｜Tasty Korean restaurant in Soho with best Jumbo!
KOBA
📍11 Rathbone St, Fitzrovia, London W1T 1NA
Drinks: I liked both the lemon juice and yuzu tea, but my friends weren’t fans of the yuzu tea.
Japchae (Stir-fried Glass Noodles): This dish was complimentary! The restaurant had just reopened after the pandemic and was offering it as a thank-you for dining in.
BBQ: Highly recommend the grilled pork belly and chicken—perfectly tender and flavorful. We loved it so much we considered ordering another round!
Kimchi Tofu: A dish of stir-fried kimchi and pork served with plain tofu. The tofu itself is mild, but when eaten with the kimchi and pork, it’s incredibly tasty.
Seafood Pancake: Minimal flour, packed with seafood, giving it a wonderfully chewy texture.
Jumbo Soup: The broth was rich and flavorful with a generous variety of seafood. Though the inclusion of udon noodles was a bit unconventional, the noodles soaked up the broth beautifully, making for a delicious dish!
💷 Per person: £30.
Everything was delicious—definitely worth a visit!
#eatlikealocal #london
London ｜ Tasty Korean restaurant with good bbq
Yori
📍6 Panton St, West End, London SW1Y 4DL
I’d been wanting to try this Korean BBQ spot for ages, and I’m so glad my friend joined me for a visit! The staff were incredibly nice, with excellent service. Even post-lockdown, the restaurant was packed—so glad we went!
Seafood Pancake: Absolutely delicious, with a generous portion and not greasy at all. Perfect as a starter!
Korean Pork Belly: A unique preparation with a hint of sweetness that’s subtle and not overwhelming.
Fried Chicken: We opted for the classic fried chicken without sweet chili sauce. It was super crispy and incredibly satisfying!
BBQ Pork: We tried both marinated and unmarinated versions, each with its own charm. The sauces were a great complement, and the pork was fresh and flavorful. Every bite had that irresistible charred aroma!
Jumbo Soup Noodles: This Korean specialty features a spicy yet savory broth packed with seafood like mussels, clams, and prawns. The noodles absorbed all the flavors, making it an absolute delight!
Must-try items: BBQ, fried chicken, and the Jumbo noodles—you won’t regret it!
💷 Per person: ~£30.
They also have great drinks—don’t miss their Korean rice wine!
#eatlikealocal #london
London ｜ Must try tasty Sichuan food in London
43 Szechuan Kitchen
📍43 S Lambeth Rd, London SW8 1RH
I regret not discovering this gem of a Sichuan restaurant earlier—Chuan Pu! Located near Vauxhall, it’s incredibly delicious, with generous portions and affordable prices. After chatting with the staff, I found out the chef is from Sichuan, which explains the authentic flavors!
Spicy Boiled Fish: Highly recommended! If you love spicy food, you’ll adore this. When it arrives, the chili oil is still sizzling, with a strong aroma of Sichuan peppercorns. The fish is incredibly tender, silky, and so flavorful—perfect with rice!
Fuqi Feipian (Sliced Beef and Tripe in Chili Sauce): Exceptionally cleanly prepared, paired with refreshing cucumber and chili—it’s amazing!
#eatlikealocal #london
The St. Paul's Cathedral, a must-visit place in London!
#europetrip#london#travel
Located very close to the Milennium Bridge in London, the St. Paul's Cathedral is renowned by its remarkable and majestic architecture.
Visiting the cathedral is absolutely an amazing experience, I'm really impressed by its beauty and historical significance. The audio guide was very helpful, providing interesting insights about the architecture, and the cathedral's history.
It's around 575 steps to the top of the dome but worth to climb, the views which overlooking the cityscape of London is literally stunning!
⏩ The St. Paul’s Cathedral admmission fee is £25(RM140+-) inclusive audio guide.
⏩ Overall rated: 5/5. For anyone interested in history, art and historic architecture, the St. Paul’s Cathedral is an absolute must-visit place in London.
🕰️ Operating hours:
Monday & Tuesday from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm.
Wednesday from 10 am - 4:30 pm.
Thursday, Friday & Saturday from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm.
Sunday from 8 am - 6 pm.
🚉 Getting there: The nearest tube station is St Paul's on the Central Line, which is a 2-minute walk away. Another way is take the District or Circle Lines to Mansion House or Blackfriars, which are both about an 8-minute walk away.
📍St. Paul's Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD, United Kingdom.
London | Newly opened Japanese restaurant near Richmond
Spent the weekend exploring around Richmond and met up with friends for dinner at a Japanese restaurant!
The ambiance was great, and the ingredients were fresh. As soon as you walk in, you're greeted with the amazing aroma of their broth.
Tonkotsu Ramen: The broth was incredibly rich and flavorful. The staff mentioned it’s simmered for 10 hours, and it really shows! Paired with a soft-boiled egg and bamboo shoots, it was absolutely delicious!
Sushi: Of course, sushi is a must at a Japanese restaurant! We ordered a nine-piece platter, beautifully presented. The salmon was tender and silky, the cherry tomatoes were sweet and tangy, and the radish had a hint of spicy aroma—light yet satisfying!
Lobster Tempura: Freshly fried tempura is always a win! The crispy coating was perfect, and the lobster inside was super fresh!
Average cost per person: £30+
📍Tsuki Ramen, 288 Upper Richmond Rd, London SW15 6TH
#eatlikealocal #london
London | Brilliant coffee shop near St John’s Hill
Story Coffee
📍115 St John's Hill, London SW11 1SZ
I went out of my way from central London today just for this cup of coffee, and thankfully, it was worth it.
This café's locations are all quite far from the city center, but they offer a variety of yogurt, bread, and coffee options. I had a latte, which had a nice, rich flavor, though the latte art was average.
The barista was super friendly, and the cup design was in colors I love, which made the experience even better!
#eatlikealocal #london
London｜Cosy restaurant with tasty Thai food
ULI
📍5 Ladbroke Rd, Notting Hill, London W11 3PA
Yesterday, my friends and I visited an Asian restaurant near Notting Hill. The ambiance was cozy and minimalist, but it was super crowded! Luckily, we made a reservation in advance, as every table was booked.
Starters:
Complimentary prawn crackers served with dipping sauce—simple but tasty.
Braised Pork Ribs had a flavor reminiscent of slow-cooked dishes. They didn’t taste as great once they cooled down, but we liked them so much that we ordered a second portion, which was fantastic!
Sesame Fried Shrimp came in a portion of just four pieces. The sesame flavor was decent, but the shrimp seemed to have been fried a while ago, so they were a bit tough.
Vietnamese Spring Rolls filled with mushrooms, carrots, and other veggies—pretty good overall.
Tom Yum Soup had only one shrimp in the serving, which was disappointing, but the tangy, sweet, and sour flavor made up for it.
The Green Curry Chicken was the highlight—great flavor, perfect with rice, and a decent amount of tender chicken. The red peppers weren’t spicy, which worked really well!
💰Price per person: Around £30-40.
#eatlikealocal #london
London | Tasty Chinese restaurant in Islington
Oriental Gourmet (Islington)
📍123A Holloway Rd, London N7 8LT
Met up with friends at Oriental Gourmet last week, and it was the brilliant restaurant!
▪️Northeast Dumpling Soup
I’ve heard that every dumpling soup has its unique twist, and this one featured super chewy dumplings with some leafy greens for a nice touch. I had three bowls, and there was still plenty left—huge portion!
▫️Minced Meat with Eggplant
The minced meat was incredibly flavorful, and the eggplant was juicy and tender. Mixed with rice, it made for an amazing combination.
▪️Spicy Chicken
This dish came in a massive portion, packed with fragrance and deliciously cooked chicken.
▫️Twice-Cooked Pork
Rich but not greasy, the pork had a salty and slightly spicy kick with a hint of chili fragrance—absolutely delightful!
▪️Salted Egg Yolk Shrimp Balls
The addition of diced onions was super aromatic. You can choose between shelled or unshelled shrimp—we went with shelled, and it was perfectly seasoned. Salted egg yolk as a topping is unbeatable!
#eatlikealocal #london
An amazing place to explores, sightseeing and broaden your horizons!
#europetrip#london#museum#cambridge
My friend and I truly enjoy visiting Cambridge because the area has numbers of musuems to explore, and it's really heartwarming that the admission is all FREE! below are the musuems which we have been visited.
1. Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology.
2. Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences.
3. The Fitzwilliam Museum.
4. Kettle's Yard.
We had also visited some of the chapel/churchs and attractions like King's College Chapel, The Round Church, The Corpus Clock, Bridge of Sighs and Mathematical Bridge.
⏩ For Chinese visitor as me, do not miss the Memorial stone dedicated to Xu Zhimo(a very famous Chinese poet and writer who had been studying in King's College in 1921). The Memorial stone is located on the lawn behind the King's College.
⏩ Overall rated: 4.9/5. An amazing place where you can spend 1-2 days to explores, sightseeing and broaden your horizons.
📍 The Old Schools, Trinity Ln, Cambridge CB2 1TN, United Kingdom.
The University of Cambridge exploration, it's simply amazing !
#europetrip#london#visitcambridge#historical
Cambridge is home to one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. Covered by greenery galore, with the River Cam flows through and beautiful historical buildings as far as the eye can see, it's a popular getaway-spot for Brits and tourists alike.
My Malaysian friend who was settled down in London brought me to Cambridge for a day trip, there is a direct train🚉 departing from King's Cross and arriving at Cambridge. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes, and that's the easier and fastest way.
I literally love this place very much, the beautiful historic architecture is so impressive, each of its buildings, streets and even walls, makes me feel amazing! People generally very nice and shows the pleasant nature of discipline and good manners. We spent a whole day to explores around the places, and it was simply amazing!
⏩ River Punting, visit to the colleges are a must! 🏛️ Most colleges are free to enter, but some charge a small fee. 🚣🏼River Punting shared tour is costs between £30 and £50 for 2 pax.
📍The Old Schools, Trinity Ln, Cambridge CB2 1TN, United Kingdom.
London | Must try cosy noodle bar in Chiswick
Last time, I met a friend in Chiswick and we went to a hidden gem noodle shop – So Noodle.
The shop has a very fresh and cozy decor, creating a warm atmosphere.
The Baman Mixed Noodles were absolutely delicious! The noodles weren’t too soft, and they were paired with kelp knots, tofu, beef, and a hint of spicy fragrance – very tasty!
The Pork Rib Soup Noodles had perfectly cooked ribs, and the vegetables were cleaned thoroughly. The hot soup was so comforting and tasty!
The Lotus Root Sandwich was huge! When you bite into it, the meat and lotus root were very firm – it’s so hearty that one person can be totally satisfied with it!
The Salt and Crispy Chicken wasn’t served in small pieces, but it was also delicious. The sauce was tangy and sweet, very flavorful!
The Fried Tofu had a crispy outer layer with soft, glutinous inside. It’s like the non-smelly version of stinky tofu, giving it a more refreshing taste!
Average cost: £30 (if you don’t order side dishes, it’s about £20).
️
📍 So Noodle, 316 Chiswick High Road W4 5TA
#eatlikealocal #london
London ｜ Brilliant Italian restaurant in the hotel with good vibe
Lavo
📍The BoTree, 34 Marylebone Ln, London W1U 2DR
I made a reservation with friends at this Italian restaurant near Oxford Street and Bond Street, and the ambiance is absolutely amazing.
️
Meatball
The meatball is enormous! It comes with tomato sauce at the bottom and a layer of chilled cheese on top, which gives it a unique texture. It's very hearty,
so I recommend sharing it with others!
Handmade Burrata
The burrata has a very fresh and light taste, paired with small tomatoes and crispy crackers, which balances out the richness.
️
Tuna Tartare
This is a must-have whenever I visit an Italian restaurant! It's very refreshing and fresh. The tuna is diced and mixed with avocado, topped with some crunchy veggies.
️
Ox Cheek
The ox cheek is incredibly tender. It cuts so easily and is flavored with a hint of red wine. The bottom has a mashed potato-like base with cream, which gives the dish a sauce-like texture.
️
Rigatoni Amatriciana
The rigatoni is delicious, especially with the bits of smoked bacon, which gives it a savory taste. Paired with the tomato sauce, it's a great combination of tangy and salty flavors.
️
20 Layer Cake
This 20-layer cake is huge, so it's best shared with a group. It's tall, very sweet, and made with peanut butter and chocolate sauce, which pair wonderfully together. Enjoying a bite of cake with a cup of tea is perfect!
The tea here is also fragrant. The Earl Grey I had had a strong floral aroma and a long-lasting aftertaste!
Average cost per person: £100+
#eatlikealocal #london
Big Ben and London eye
My London trip 🇬🇧#london #londontrip #travel
Review of London Eye and Big Ben
Visiting the London Eye and Big Ben was an unforgettable experience! These iconic landmarks truly capture the essence of London.
London Eye:
The London Eye offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The 30-minute ride in the glass capsules allowed me to spot famous landmarks like the Shard, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and even Windsor Castle on a clear day! The ride was smooth, and the staff were friendly and efficient. I highly recommend going just before sunset for a magical view as the city lights come alive. The only downside was the long queue, so booking tickets in advance is a must.
Big Ben:
Big Ben is as majestic in person as it appears in photos. The intricate Gothic architecture of the clock tower (now known as the Elizabeth Tower) is awe-inspiring. Hearing the chimes in real life was a special moment that added to the charm. While you can’t go inside unless you’re a UK resident, it’s still a perfect spot for stunning photos, especially at night when the tower is illuminated.
Overall:
Both landmarks are must-visit attractions when in London. They are conveniently located near each other, making it easy to explore both in one trip. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these sights never fail to impress!
Who Said Money Can’t Buy Happiness? A Solo Adventure Through London’s Cafés
They say money can’t buy happiness, but my recent solo trip through the streets of London might just prove otherwise. Armed with a love for café hopping and a sweet tooth, I explored some of the city’s most iconic spots, indulging in treats that were worth every penny.
My first stop was Creme, a cozy gem known for its oversized cookies. Their miso white chocolate cookie was unlike anything I’d ever tasted—gooey, buttery, and with a hint of savory miso that elevated the sweetness. Honestly, it’s the kind of cookie that makes you stop mid-bite and say, “This is happiness.”
Next up, I wandered into Dirty Mamason’s, where I discovered their iconic Ube Dirty Latte. The vibrant purple hue and nutty flavor of the ube paired perfectly with the bold espresso, making it both Instagram-worthy and delicious. The quirky vibe of the café added to the experience, with walls adorned in neon art that matched its bold menu.
Finally, no café hopping experience in London is complete without a stop at Pierre Hermé. Famous for their luxurious macarons, this Parisian export has perfected the art of these delicate confections. My pick? The Ispahan macaron, a blend of rose, lychee, and raspberry that felt like biting into a piece of heaven.
Of course, the journey wasn’t just about the food. Strolling solo through London’s vibrant streets, soaking in the historic charm, and discovering hidden corners of the city made the experience all the more memorable. Each café felt like a small celebration of indulgence and self-love.
So, who said money can’t buy happiness? They clearly haven’t walked the streets of London with a miso white chocolate cookie in hand. Sometimes, a solo café-hopping adventure is all the joy you need.
#solotrip #london
London | Brilliant Middle East restaurant in Marylebone
Delamina Marylebone
📍56-58 Marylebone Ln, Marylebone, London W1U 2NX
A few days ago, I went to this Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant with Molly & Xinyao. The overall atmosphere was relaxed, and the portions were relatively small, which allowed us to try a variety of dishes with different flavors.
Gls Marques
This was a wine recommended by the staff, and both Xinyao and Molly said it was excellent!
Artichokes
This was an interesting vegetable dish. The texture was reminiscent of potatoes, but the base had a layer of goat cheese, which added a unique and slightly unusual flavor.
Beef & Venison Koftas
This dish featured rich, flavorful beef shaped into meatballs, served over a bed of mashed potatoes and accompanied by a few onion curls. The combination was hearty but not overly greasy.
Small Avocado Salad
A classic Middle Eastern-style avocado salad with generous slices of avocado surrounded by small, textured grains. The avocado portion was substantial and satisfying!
Winter Vegetables
A mix of finely chopped bulgur wheat, raisins, pumpkin, beets, and other seasonal vegetables. The flavors were unique and delightful. As a vegetarian dish, it was both tasty and healthy.
#eatlikealocal #london
London | Enjoy the brilliant cocktail with river view
Lyaness (Formerly Dandelyan)
📍20 Upper Ground, South Bank, London SE1 9PD
This bar is in an absolutely stunning location, situated within a beautifully designed hotel.
The bar is near the Thames River, offering a clear view of St. Paul’s Cathedral—a truly impressive vista. The primary color theme of the bar is blue, with strikingly beautiful blue lighting that exudes understated luxury and sophistication.
The cocktail menu is thoughtfully designed. The last page features a map that categorizes drinks based on the time of day (morning, afternoon, or evening) and alcohol strength, making it easier for those with a lower tolerance to find the perfect cocktail.
All drinks can also be made as mocktails. I happened to have a bad cold that day, so I opted for a mocktail, and it tasted fantastic!
#eatlikealocal #london
London ｜ The most tasty Chinese restaurant in Mayfair with good vibe
Park Chinois
📍17 Berkeley St, Mayfair, London W1J 8EA
The best dim sum restaurant in all of London! Located in Mayfair, the entrance seems unassuming, but stepping inside is a stunning experience. The red interior design and spiral staircase are captivating. The basement has a slightly dark, moody vibe, while the upper floor is brighter and more spacious.
Truffle Bao
They were so generous with the black truffle! The bun itself is soft and satisfying, and the filling, reminiscent of sweet and savory char siu, was delicious.
Potted Rice, Black Truffle
We specifically came here for this black truffle rice, and it did not disappoint. The aroma is incredible when served, and the staff mixed and portioned it perfectly for us. It’s rich but not greasy, and the ample black truffle is absolutely worth it.
Supreme Seafood Dumpling Soup
A must-try! The dumplings are generously filled with crab meat and other fresh ingredients. The seafood flavors are infused into the broth, making it incredibly comforting and flavorful. A bowl of this is pure warmth and satisfaction.
Pan-Fried Pumpkin Dumpling
These are shaped like tiny pumpkins, complete with realistic grooves! The filling includes a touch of pumpkin purée and is slightly savory, making them a delightful treat.
The meal ended with peach-shaped buns filled with warm taro paste. Freshly steamed, they brought a sense of pure happiness to the table!
#eatlikealocal #london
London | Brilliant pizza restaurant in Hackney in East London
Story Deli
📍515 Cambridge Heath Rd, London E2 9BU
The restaurant has a cozy vibe, with the owner’s impeccable aesthetic evident in the beautifully arranged greenery in the back garden.
The pizzas we tried were all pretty good: All Dayer, Florentine, Mushroom, Hackney Hoo, and Prawn, each with its unique charm.
The Mushroom pizza was incredibly aromatic, with a slightly sweet flavor.The All Dayer featured runny egg yolk melting over bacon — absolutely delicious.The Prawn pizza stood out with super fresh shrimp, combined with green peppers and other toppings, giving it a lovely sweetness.
To wrap things up, the coffee and lemon cheesecake were both exceptional. The coffee cheesecake had a subtle cappuccino aroma.
Average spend: £30+
#eatlikealocal #london